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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

kikiki

Standard Member
Oct 9, 2025
7
13
first of all congratulations that's so amazing! I bet they could've just felt how amazing a fit you were and you're going to shine at the AC too, im so happy for you!!

would you be okay if I ask two things. what was your amberjack score if you dont mind? also would you be down to share the est. AC dates or like how many slots/days they had? no pressure at all to share anything and CONGRATULATIONS, I hope you're celebrating < 3
Thank you that's so sweet! Not celebrating yet haha.

I got 6677 (i want to make a joke) and high for the other two. i only had the option of 2 slots in one day, but they're definitely still sending out more.
 
Thank you that's so sweet! Not celebrating yet haha.

I got 6677 (i want to make a joke) and high for the other two. i only had the option of 2 slots in one day, but they're definitely still sending out more.
6677… hmm… that’s interesting… 🧐

6 7 Tk GIF by Overtime
6 7 Tk GIF by Overtime
 
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iklawapps

Distinguished Member
Premium Member
Mar 1, 2025
54
48
Thank you that's so sweet! Not celebrating yet haha.

I got 6677 (i want to make a joke) and high for the other two. i only had the option of 2 slots in one day, but they're definitely still sending out more.
Hahaha even better than a perfect 36 if you ask me!

Thank you for replying and good luck at your AC!! I just know you’re going to absolutely smash it and lmk if I can help in any way : )
 
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TCchaser

Esteemed Member
Feb 8, 2025
87
133
@Abbie Whitlock

Hi, I hope you're well!

How do you discuss why you're interested in a particular practice area, especially if a firm is really known for that sector, if you have no experience in that area? Alternatively, I was thinking of discussing how the firm has Band 1 rankings in transactional and contentious departments, and I want to gain a breadth of experience - do you think that might be a better approach, or is it better to focus on a firm's prominent areas?

Thank you!
 
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summersun

Legendary Member
Nov 8, 2024
276
440
Does anyone have any advice/way of finding out what seats/areas of law are available at the Gateley Reading Office? I'm really struggling to find it and I have an AC soon and I have no idea whether the seat i'm interested in is actually offered at that specific office!!
Maybe you could try to message a current trainee on Linkedin to ask them directly? Not sure they will reply one time but worth a try.
 

Abbie Whitlock

Administrator
Staff member
Gold Member
Premium Member
Sep 11, 2025
988
1,136
@Abbie Whitlock

Hi, I hope you're well!

How do you discuss why you're interested in a particular practice area, especially if a firm is really known for that sector, if you have no experience in that area? Alternatively, I was thinking of discussing how the firm has Band 1 rankings in transactional and contentious departments, and I want to gain a breadth of experience - do you think that might be a better approach, or is it better to focus on a firm's prominent areas?

Thank you!
Hey!

I am doing well, thank you - hope you are too! :)

It is really common to not have direct experience in an area you are interested in, so don't worry! The firm will be more interested in why the work itself interests you, and you can show this by referring to the type of work involved (e.g. problem-solving in disputes) and why that appeals to you. I always found it helpful to find online programmes, such as Forage, for specific practice areas and have a go at completing those (even if they are for a different firm), as you can use that to explain what interests you about the area.

It is also completely fine to emphasise breadth of exposure. If the firm has strong rankings across both transactional and contentious teams, it makes sense to say that you are attracted to the opportunity to explore a range of areas during the training contract.

If the firm is particularly known for a certain practice area, it can be a good idea to mention it briefly to show you have researched the firm. However, you don't need to build your whole answer around it if you don't have a strong interest there :)
 
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